In response to growing tensions between South Sudan and Sudanese nationals, South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir has called for calm, urging citizens not to take matters into their own hands. This follows a series of violent attacks on businesses and homes owned by Sudanese people, resulting in deaths, injuries, and property damage in South Sudan’s capital, Juba, and the north-western town of Aweil.
Violent Attacks and Casualties
The violence erupted after footage surfaced showing alleged Sudanese soldiers killing South Sudanese civilians in Wad Madani, Sudan. These clips sparked outrage, particularly among South Sudanese youth, who sought retribution by attacking Sudanese businesses in their country. Police reported that three people were killed and seven others were wounded during clashes with security officers. The nationalities of the deceased have not been disclosed.
In Aweil, three houses belonging to Sudanese nationals were set on fire, adding to the escalating violence. Amid these confrontations, a dusk-to-dawn curfew was imposed to restore order, with residents banned from being out on the streets between 18:00 and 06:00 local time to prevent further violence and protect public and private property.
South Sudan’s Growing Tensions with Sudanese Nationals
South Sudan, which gained independence from Sudan in 2011 after decades of civil war, is facing a growing influx of Sudanese refugees escaping the ongoing conflict in their homeland. The situation has worsened since April 2023 when warring factions in Sudan began fighting, creating the world’s worst humanitarian crisis. The UN estimates that half of Sudan’s population—around 25 million people—are in urgent need of food and aid.
This conflict has also led to the targeting of South Sudanese citizens trapped in Sudan, particularly in areas like Gezira State. President Kiir condemned the recent killings of South Sudanese civilians in Sudan, urging the Sudanese government to protect South Sudanese citizens and allow international humanitarian organizations to investigate the matter.
Escalation of Violence in South Sudan
In South Sudan, the situation took a violent turn after the release of disturbing videos showing alleged Sudanese military forces killing South Sudanese civilians. In response, hundreds of young South Sudanese men took to the streets, attacking Sudanese-owned businesses in Juba and other parts of the country.
Clashes and Looting in Juba
In the capital, Juba, gunfire echoed through the night as security forces patrolled the streets. Police had to chase dozens of young men, primarily in their 20s, who were seen running and being pursued by officers across the city. The atmosphere in Juba remained tense, with businesses, including the largest market in the country, Konyo Konyo, shutting down for safety. Many restaurants and cafes also closed their doors, and local bakeries raised bread prices by as much as 17% due to limited supplies.
Clashes in Other Cities
Violence also spread to other regions. In Wau, South Sudan’s second-largest city, hundreds of youths attacked Souk Jaw, a market with many Sudanese-owned businesses. The police intervened by firing live bullets into the air to disperse the crowds and prevent looting. Additionally, spontaneous demonstrations erupted in Tonj, a town in the Warrap state, which is President Kiir’s home state.
Government Response and Measures
The South Sudanese government has taken immediate action to prevent further violence. In Juba, police rescued 45 Sudanese traders and moved them to a safe police station for protection. Authorities have also deployed additional security forces to guard Sudanese citizens and businesses, particularly in areas like Atalabara C suburbs, where attacks on Sudanese-owned properties have been concentrated.
Sudan’s Humanitarian Crisis and Ethnic Tensions
The ongoing violence between the Sudanese army and rebel forces has exacerbated ethnic tensions within Sudan, with darker-skinned African communities in regions like Darfur and Gezira increasingly targeted by lighter-skinned Arab fighters. These attacks are often rooted in historical racial and ethnic conflicts, with some Sudanese citizens calling attention to the systemic racism that continues to plague the country.
The killing of South Sudanese citizens in Sudan, particularly in areas like Wad Madani, is a stark reminder of these long-standing ethnic tensions. In response, President Kiir has called the attacks “unacceptable” and called on the Sudanese government to ensure the protection of South Sudanese citizens in Sudan and investigate these killings with the help of international organizations.
Calls for Peace and Stability
The situation remains fluid as South Sudan grapples with the effects of the Sudanese conflict spilling over its borders. President Kiir’s appeal for calm is a reminder of the delicate balance the country must maintain as it navigates the complexities of its relationship with Sudan and addresses the rising humanitarian crisis. As South Sudan continues to provide refuge to Sudanese fleeing the violence, both governments face the challenge of preventing further escalation and ensuring the safety of their citizens.
